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Chilean Bellflower

Lapageria rosea

Please be careful removing your plant from it's packaging.

 Soil -- Lapageria likes rich, moist soil that drains easily and is "airy".  The soil should be slightly acid and have little to no lime.  A good mix would be approximately 1 parts well-decomposed compost (or good quality potting soil), 1 part peat moss (or potting soil), 1 part perlite (or pumice), and 1 part horticultural sand, mixed well.

Transplanting -- Transplant carefully to avoid disturbing the root mass.  Transplant to a 1 gallon container and stake the plant if necessary.  Water it in but do not pack the soil down.  After a year or two, it may be transferred to a 3-5 gallon container, which can be its permanent home.

Watering -- The best water for Lapageria is neutral to slightly acid in pH, and low in minerals.  Many tap waters are too alkaline, so i recommend using rainwater or bottled water.  If your tap water is considered "soft" and low in minerals, you may use it.  If you use a water filter, avoid ones that add sodium, like some Brita filters, since too much sodium may be damaging to the plant.  Check their website if you are unsure. 

Lapageria likes moist soil, but it shouldn't be constantly soggy either.  Don't allow the soil to dry out.  Never let the pot sit in a tray of water either.  Also avoid keeping the leaves wet for prolonged periods, as this may cause leaf fungus in some areas. 

Lighting -- Lapageria prefers to have its sun filtered through trees (dappled sun).  It can burn from prolonged, direct sun.  Bright shade is fine provided that it does get some morning or late-afternoon sun.  Lapageria likes its roots cool, so try to keep the pot shaded in warmer areas.

Climate -- Lapageria prefers moderate temperatures, and cooler nights.  It's happiest between about 40 and 80 degrees (5-27°C), and above freezing.  It is said to tolerate down to the low 20s (-5°C) if given overhead protection.  But protect your plants from frost the first 2 years.  You may grow Lapageria indoors or in a greenhouse provided that it gets good air ventilation and the air is cool and over about 40% humidity.  If the humidity becomes low, consider using a room humidifier.

Support -- Lapageria prefers to twist a around narrow structures under 1" in diameter.  A trellis or fence works well, or you can string wires across a wall and tie the vine to it as it grows.  If the plant gets too long, rather than prune it, you can wrap the vine around itself.

Pests to watch for -- Protect from snails and slugs, which love Lapageria.  Watch for aphids on the new growth, and spider mites on the older leaves (tiny "dots" on the leaves).  Scale (small discs) and mealy bugs may appear on the stems or leaves.

If you have any questions, please email me.

Enjoy your plant!

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